EU AI Rules Are Forcing Startups to Second-Guess What They Can Build — Graham Ó Maonaigh (Tuarity)

In this interview Graham Ó Maonaigh, CEO and co-founder of Tuarity, explains how ambiguity surrounding the EU AI Act is dictating product decisions long before new features ever reach customers.

Tuarity builds an AI-powered HR co-pilot that helps businesses streamline everyday workplace management. But to steer clear of a ‘high-risk’ classification under the AI Act, Graham explains why his team has had to deliberately hold back certain innovative features to avoid legal ambiguity.

From seeking expert advice to checking every new feature for compliance, Graham reflects on the practical cost of unclear boundaries in EU legislation. His message: Europe should protect consumers but at the same time support ethical businesses through clear, workable rules that give entrepreneurs confidence to innovate again.

This conversation is part of CCIA Europe’s #UnlockEUInnovation campaign, featuring European startup leaders explaining why regulatory simplification cannot wait – and what’s at stake if it doesn’t happen.